American Black Bear

 

American Black Bear in the Wildlife Management Area (not near trails)

Did you know that 90% of a bear's diet is plant material?  In the fall, hazelnuts, acorns, and wild apples are consumed in abundance in an attempt to fatten up.  This caloric intake sustains them through winter when they pull from fat stores and lose 15-25% of their body weight.  Females gaining enough weight in the fall is crucial for the health of young cubs who will be born and nursed during late winter within the den.